SCIENCE

YEAR 11 BIOLOGY - PLASMA MEMBRANES

As a part of our Unit 1 Biology studies, we explored the importance of cell membranes in cells and how particles can be transported in and out of the cell. With the aid of some special dishwashing detergent and a plastic straw frame, we were able to blow large bubbles left, right and centre. 

To better understand the plasma membrane, we made bubble films and played around with it. We tried gently poking some objects coated in bubble solution through the soap film; the film remains in contact with a “like” solution and doesn’t burst. In contrast, an object with a different chemical formulate shears the film. By doing this, we explored the properties of soap films and relate them to the properties of plasma membranes and the mechanics of transport across membranes. 

Angel Jiang, Year 11 

For me, The bubble experiment was a really good way of depicting slightly complicated concepts we had done in biology in an interactive and fun way, making the study of cell membranes engaging. Manipulating the bubbles and observing how they stretched and held their shape provided a clear visual representation of how cell membranes function. 

By poking objects through the bubble film, we could see how substances that matched the film’s properties passed through, while others did not. This prac demonstrated the concept of selective permeability in a way I will always remember so I can understand cellular transport processes better.

Avani Kulkarni, Year 10